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Railroad Operator Jobs in Oklahoma (NOW HIRING)

Backhoe Operator I

Tulsa, OK · On-site

$40K - $53K/yr

Backhoe Operator North American Rail Solutions (NARS) is seeking a skilled Backhoe Operator to perform essential earthwork for railroad construction and maintenance projects. This hourly craft ...

... operating pickup trucks, tractors, all-terrain vehicles, or comparable industrial equipment is helpful. Pay and Benefits This full-time position pays $25.00 per hour . Road & Rail Services also ...

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Railroad Operator information

See Oklahoma salary details

$8

$18

$37

How much do railroad operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad operator in Oklahoma is $18.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.37 and $19.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a railroad operator?

Railroad operators are professionals responsible for managing the movement of trains along rail networks. They monitor train schedules, coordinate with engineers and conductors, and ensure the safe and efficient operation of trains. Their duties may also include controlling track switches, communicating with dispatchers, and responding to emergencies. Railroad operators play a vital role in maintaining railway safety and timely transportation of passengers and goods.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a railroad operator?

To thrive as a Railroad Operator, you need a solid understanding of railway operations, safety regulations, and mechanical systems, often supported by a high school diploma and on-the-job training or certification. Familiarity with signaling systems, dispatch software, and locomotive controls is typically required. Attention to detail, situational awareness, and strong communication skills help operators manage schedules and respond effectively to emergencies. These skills are vital to ensure the safe, efficient, and timely movement of trains while minimizing risks on the railway.

What are some common challenges faced by railroad operators and how can they be addressed?

Railroad operators often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, strict adherence to safety regulations, and maintaining schedules despite operational delays. Effective communication with dispatchers and other crew members is crucial to managing these situations. Proactively reporting equipment issues, participating in ongoing safety training, and staying adaptable can help operators overcome these challenges and ensure smooth operations.

What is the difference between Railroad Operator vs Signal Maintainer?

AspectRailroad OperatorSignal Maintainer
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety training, sometimes certificationsHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications in electrical or signal systems
Work EnvironmentTrain cab, rail yards, on tracksSignal boxes, electrical rooms, on-site at rail yards and tracks
Industry UsageOperating trains, controlling movementMaintaining and repairing signaling systems

Railroad Operators focus on operating trains and ensuring safe movement along tracks, while Signal Maintainers specialize in maintaining signaling systems that control train traffic. Both roles require safety training and are essential for railway operations, but they differ in daily tasks and technical skills.

How much do railroad operators make?

Railroad operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and the employer. They often require specialized training and certifications, and may work irregular hours or shifts in a safety-sensitive environment.

Is it hard to get hired on the railroad?

Getting hired as a railroad operator can be competitive and typically requires relevant experience, safety training, and sometimes certifications. Employers often look for candidates with good communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a safety-sensitive environment.
Infographic showing various Railroad Operator job openings in Oklahoma as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,216 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Operator -Rail Support

Vulcan Materials Company

Mill Creek, OK • On-site

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Vulcan Materials rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 151 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

296th of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description


Job Summary
Operates and maintains equipment to support rail operations, including track maintenance, signaling systems, and train dispatching. Monitors and controls train movements, communicates with train crews and maintenance personnel, and ensures compliance with safety regulations and operating procedures. Performs routine inspections, repairs, and maintenance tasks on rail equipment and infrastructure. Assists in responding to emergencies and coordinating with other departments to ensure efficient and safe rail operations. Requires knowledge of rail operations, equipment operation, and safety protocols. This includes, but is not limited to, operating and maintaining rail equipment, conducting inspections, and providing technical assistance.
Essential Functions
• Job requirements include weighing trucks on scale; entering appropriate data into computer (price, product, weight, customer name, etc.)
• Collecting cash/checks; interfacing with company personnel and with outside haulers
• Generating bill of sale, dray tickets, and bills of lading
• Inspect all equipment on cars prior to movement. Instruct locomotive operator threw radio communication in coupling and uncoupling cars, operate switches, and make minor repairs to railcars, including replacing heavy couplings; i.e., replacing broken knuckles or air brake hoses
• Required to operate switches; operate uncoupling levers; operate remote control devices; sets/releases hand brakes; inspects and makes minor train repairs; comprehends color and/or hand signals, safety, operating rules and communications; and, switching activities and train movements
• Operate and maintain rail equipment, including locomotives, railcars, and other specialized equipment
• Conduct regular inspections of rail equipment to ensure safety and compliance with regulations
• Perform minor repairs and maintenance on rail equipment
• Receive and review directions from supervisor, lead man and clerk and discuss with locomotive engineer and other crew members
• The employee may work in high and/or precarious places or cramped work space that requires getting into awkward positions
• Must be able to stand, walk, or sit for extended periods of time; grip, climb, reach, shovel, squat, crawl, or pull, push, as well as, bend and lift up to 45 pounds
• Must be able to speak, read, and have a working knowledge of the English language if required for the position
• Performs start-up and shut down procedures and monitors material flow, load out settings throughout assigned responsible area, making adjustments as required to maximize production and to provide a quality product along with operating same such machines to load same finished product into rail car
• Comply with all safety rules and regulations
Critical Competencies
• Technical Expertise-Solid mechanical understanding of mobile equipment, including basic maintenance checks and troubleshooting minor issues. Ability to identify signs of equipment malfunction and report them to the maintenance team.
• Problem Solving- identify, analyze, and resolve work-related issues efficiently and effectively using practical knowledge, experience, and hands-on skills. This involves identifying the problem, diagnosing the cause, finding practical solutions, implementing fixes, and adapting to unexpected challenges.
• Safety Awareness- Ability to recognize, understand, and adhere to safety protocols and procedures in the workplace; proactive in identifying potential hazards, taking steps to mitigate risks, and ensuring that both personal and collective safety are maintained in all tasks and environments.
• Collaboration- Ability to work effectively with others to achieve common goals by fostering teamwork, open communication, and mutual respect. It involves actively listening, sharing ideas, problem-solving collectively, and leveraging diverse skills and perspectives. Strong collaboration requires adaptability, conflict resolution, and a willingness to support team members, ensuring productivity and a positive work environment.
• Adaptability: Adjusts to new conditions, challenges, or changes in the work environment; demonstrate the ability to be flexible, open-minded, and resilient when facing shifting priorities, unforeseen obstacles, or evolving situations; responds positively to change, learns new skills when necessary, and maintains high performance even in unfamiliar or uncertain circumstances.
Responsibilities
Education
• High School Diploma/GED or an equivalent combination of training and work experience.
Experience
• Office and clerical experience, word processing, and calculator operations are preferred.
• Knowledge of the rail weight regulations, capacities, and limitations is a plus.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• Proficient in operating and maintaining rail equipment, including locomotives, railcars, and other specialized equipment.
• Strong mechanical and electrical skills
• Excellent communication skills
• Able to perform switching, loading/unloading, breaking or making up of trains.
• Must be able to operate hand controlled rail switches, pneumatic air valves, manual hand-wheel brakes on railcars, high pressure water hoses, pry bar and shovel
• Able to safely and efficiently operate rail load out through the use of conveyor belts, crushers, motor, gear boxes, screens, etc.
• Work outdoors and exposed to varying and/or extreme weather conditions (i.e., heat, wet, cold, etc.)
• Strong mechanical and electrical skills.
• Ability to read and understand technical manuals and schematic
Other Requirements
• Must be able to work required overtime, weekends and flexible work schedule as needed
• Travel with the train on its assigned route to protect the movement of train
• Maintain a clean and safe work environment
• Strong mechanical and electrical skills
• Valid driver's license
JD Disclaimer
Vulcan Materials Company is an equal opportunity employer.

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